Buccaneers Hold Off LFC for First MWC Win of Season

December 10, 2013 at 7:55 pm

Lake Forest, IL -- The Beloit College Men's Basketball team found a way to close out a win on Tuesday night after some tight losses, holding off Lake Forest College in the final minute for a 78-76 win, their first in the Midwest Conference this season.

In the first half, the Bucs turned a 10-9 deficit into a 19-12 lead midway through the half with a 10-2 run. But the Foresters chipped away and regained the lead 30-29 with 4:21 left on the strength of a prolonged 18-10 run. The final four minutes went back and forth, with Beloit taking a 38-37 advantage into the lockerroom.

The Buccaneers extended their lead to 47-43 five minutes into the second half before a 13-8 run by Lake Forest gave them a 56-55 lead with 10:00 remaining. Beloit appeared to take control of the game with 6:30 left, building a 68-60 lead, but LFC kept the pressure on and pulled to within 76-74 with 33 seconds left.

Chris Bremner hit a pair of free throws with 30 seconds left to give Beloit a 78-74 lead and held the Foresters to two free throws in the final seconds to secure the win.

Beloit shot 49% from the field for the game, including hitting eight three-pointers, six of them in the opening half, and 20-26 free throws.

James Lazarcik led the way with 23 points and 12 rebounds while Steve McAfee added 13 points. Joe Poshepny and Tyler Butke added 11 points apiece. Langston Booker and Steve Dowden both distributed five assists.

The Buccaneers have some time off for finals before returning to Flood Arena on Thursday, December 19, to host Knox College. Tipoff is at 5:30 p.m.